The government will continue investing in the capacity of the Eswatini National Fire, Rescue and Emergency Service to meet international standards, as the country strengthens its efforts to protect lives and property and improve emergency preparedness.
Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini said this during the 3rd edition of National Fire Day at Matsapha International Airport, where the service also celebrated 51 years of existence.
Dlamini said strengthening the service was part of the country’s commitment to building institutional capacity and ensuring that emergency personnel were adequately equipped to respond to disasters and other emergencies.
He said this commitment was aligned with Eswatini’s vision of attaining first-world status, as outlined by His Majesty King Mswati III.
Speaking on behalf of His Majesty’s Government, the Prime Minister expressed appreciation to the King for establishing and supporting the National Fire and Emergency Day commemoration in 2024, saying the observance played an important role in raising awareness of fire prevention and strengthening national resilience.
He said fire continued to claim lives and destroy property across the world, with Eswatini also exposed to the risks, making it necessary to strengthen prevention measures and improve the country’s ability to respond to emergencies.
The Prime Minister said the annual commemoration provided an opportunity to reflect on the work undertaken by the government through the Fire and Emergency Services to prevent fires, protect communities and preserve property.
He added that the King’s presence at the celebration demonstrated the importance attached to fire safety standards and emergency preparedness, while reaffirming that protecting lives and property was a shared national responsibility.
Dlamini also emphasised the need to expand emergency services and strengthen institutional capacity to ensure the country was better prepared to deal with emergencies.
He commended firefighters and emergency personnel for their courage and dedication, noting that their service remained essential in safeguarding communities across the country. 
